Simple motor tics usually involve just one group of muscle,
such as eye blinking or grimacing.

Complex motor tics usually involve more muscle groups and might
look like a series of movements. For example, someone might touch a body part or another
person repeatedly. In rare cases, people with Tourette syndrome might have a tic that
makes them harm themselves, such as head banging.

At certain times, like when someone is under stress,
the tics can become more severe, happen more often, or last longer. Or, the type of
tic may change.

Some kids can hold back their tics for a short time. But as tension builds,
it eventually has to be released as a tic. And if a person is concentrating on controlling
the tic, it may be hard to focus on anything else. This can make it hard for kids
with Tourette syndrome to have a conversation or pay attention in class.

Causes

Tourette syndrome is a genetic disorder, which means it's the result of a change
in genes that's either inherited (passed on from parent to child) or happens during
development in the womb.

The exact cause of Tourette syndrome isn't known, but some research points to changes
in the brain and problems with how nerve cells communicate. An upset in the balance
of neurotransmitters (chemicals in the brain that carry nerve signals from cell to
cell) might play a role.

Diagnosis and Treatment

To be diagnosed
with Tourette syndrome, a child must have several different types of tics —
specifically, multiple motor tics and at least one vocal tic — for at least a year. They may happen every day or from time to time throughout the year.

A child with Tourette symptoms may need to see a neurologist, a doctor who specializes in problems with
the nervous system. The neurologist may ask the
child's parents to keep track of the kinds of tics involved and how often they happen.

There isn't a specific diagnostic test for Tourette syndrome — instead,
the health care provider diagnoses it after taking a family history, medical history,
looking at the symptoms, and doing a physical exam. Sometimes, imaging tests like
magnetic resonance imaging tests
(MRIs), computerized tomography (CT) scans, electroencephalograms
(EEGs), or blood tests can rule out other conditions that might cause symptoms
similar to Tourette syndrome.

Just as Tourette syndrome is different for every person, treatment can
be different, too. While there isn't a cure for Tourette syndrome, most tics don't
get in the way of day-to-day life. If they do, doctors may suggest medicines to help control symptoms.

Tourette syndrome is not a psychological
condition, but doctors sometimes refer kids and teens to a psychologist or psychiatrist. Seeing a therapist
won't stop their tics, but it can help to talk to someone about their problems, cope
with stress better, and learn relaxation techniques. A therapist also
can help them with any other problems, like ADHD,
OCD, and/or anxiety.

Tics usually are most severe before the mid-teen years. Most people see great improvement
in their late teens to early adulthood, though some will have their tics continue
into adulthood.

Dealing With Tourette Syndrome

Many people don't understand what Tourette syndrome is or what causes it,
so they might not know how to act around someone who has tics. If people stare
or comment, kids and teens with Tourette syndrome can feel embarrassed and frustrated.
Someone who has it might have to explain the condition to others or deal with teasing
or gawking.

These tips can help kids with Tourette syndrome cope:

Get involved. Some experts say that when kids and teens are engrossed
in an activity, their tics are milder and less frequent. Sports, exercise, or hobbies
are great ways for kids to focus mental and physical energy.

Lend a helping hand. Dealing with Tourette syndrome often makes
kids and teens more understanding of other people's feelings, especially other young
people with problems. They might use that special sensitivity to volunteer.
Knowing that they've helped others might help build confidence and lessen any self-consciousness
about feeling different.

Embrace creativity. Creative activities such as writing, painting,
or making music help focus the mind on other things — and they help it develop.

Find support. The Tourette Syndrome Association sponsors support
groups with others who understand the challenges of Tourette syndrome.

Take control. People with Tourette syndrome can feel more
in control of their lives by researching the condition, asking their doctors plenty
of questions, and taking an active role in their treatment.

Each person with Tourette syndrome will cope differently with its physical, emotional,
and social challenges. Tourette syndrome doesn't have to disrupt everyday life, though,
and kids who have it can enjoy doing the same things as other kids.